Arrests of Americans

Consuls cannot get a U.S. citizen out of jail; when you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. Consuls may only work on a prisoner's behalf with the local authorities if they believe that the American citizen is being treated differently than the other prisoners. They can provide a list of local attorneys (PDF - 127kb), visit the prisoner at regular intervals, and contact the prisoner's family and friends. Consular officers can also transfer money, food, and clothing from the prisoner's family and friends.